Live Free!
“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man…”
It’s right there in plain black and white letters, the problem – temptation, and it’s common to man and woman. If I dwell there too long I become discouraged. Temptations are discouraging and can be exhausting to deal with day in and day out; especially those that have gained a stronghold in our lives. There is no comfort in knowing they are common to all people. That doesn’t really help me. Does it help you?
How much does it help the person struggling with pornography, alcohol, drugs, food, or an affair?
“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man…”
The words aren’t very encouraging. I’m so thankful the verse doesn’t stop there with us all crammed in the same boat without a paddle, falling for all those temptations we have in common. The next line comes to the rescue and brings with it life changing hope – “BUT GOD…” The hero shows up in the weaknesses of man (and woman) to free us from this common problem of sin. He makes a way of escape. He calls us out of the boat and on to the water. He shows us the way out and it’s Jesus. He is the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE.
“But God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
He doesn’t bring the temptation, and He doesn’t tempt anyone with evil (James 1:13). But He promises when we are tempted to provide us a way to escape. We are never trapped. Never abandoned. Never ever left alone powerless against sin. Because God is faithful and He will NEVER allow us to be tempted beyond what we can say a holy “NO” to, through the power of His Spirit, and take the exit door He has provided.
Are you dealing with temptation and having a hard time breaking free? Look for God’s way of escape, it’s there. He says it’s there, believe Him, trust Him, and say a holy NO to that evil one who says you can’t be set free. He is a liar!
Whom the Lord sets free is free indeed!
Live free.
Charlotte
Great Word today Charlotte! We all struggle with some kind of temptation but thank God He makes a way of escape for us! ((hugs))
Powerful message, Charlotte. Yes, temptations are all around us, but with His help we can break free.
So true! Thank you for that encouraging post!